The Koforidua High Court 2 has commuted an initial eight-day jail sentence imposed on the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Atiwa East, Ernest Owusu Ntim, to a fine of GH¢12,000 for contempt of court in connection with illegal mining (galamsey) activities.
The court, after initially sentencing Ntim to eight days in prison for his alleged involvement in galamsey on protected land despite a pending injunction, reviewed the ruling on Monday, December 15, 2025, following submissions from his legal team.
In the judgment, the court found that Ntim and his associates were responsible for extensive environmental damage, including the destruction of farmlands, pollution of the Koben River, and contamination of vital water sources serving multiple communities in the Eastern Region.
Ntim was cited for contempt after allegedly continuing illegal mining operations while an injunction application was pending before the court. The case stems from a longstanding dispute over land use, with allegations dating back to May 2025 involving Ntim, his brothers, and others.
According to a Citinewsroom report, the presiding judge emphasised that commuting the custodial sentence to a fine does not undermine the gravity of the offence, stating that the decision serves as a stern warning against illegal mining and environmental degradation, particularly when public officials are implicated.